(Houston) ABS, a leading provider of classification services to the global marine and offshore industries, has centralized its global Marine strategic planning, client development, and product and service offerings to deliver enhanced classification services and joint technical projects. Effective Feb. 15, 2016, Dr. Kirsi Tikka is promoted to the new role of Executive Vice President – Global Marine. She will continue to be based in London.

“An industry-recognized and respected expert, Kirsi brings tremendous experience and insight to deliver improved coordination, consistency and responsiveness to our members and clients,” says ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. “Kirsi is precisely the right person at the right time with the unique understanding and proficiency to help our clients navigate increasingly challenging regulatory waters.”

As the Global Marine lead, Tikka will align ABS strategic planning, client development, and product and service offerings with the industry’s technical needs and requirements. Dedicated market sector leaders will focus on container ships, tankers and bulk carriers, and an executive team is positioned to deliver practical energy efficiency, environmental performance, and global gas solutions.

“This new centralized approach positions us more closely to market drivers and provides a more consistent structure for technology development and even stronger client relationships,” adds Wiernicki. “As a result, we are better situated to execute on our mission to support industry safety.”

Prior to her appointment, Tikka served as the Division President for Europe and Africa and as Vice President and Chief Engineer. Tikka holds a Doctorate in Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture from the University of Technology in Helsinki. She is a Fellow of both the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) and the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA). In 2012, Tikka received SNAME’s David W. Taylor Medal, the highest technical honor for naval architecture or marine engineering.

Rick Pride will replace Tikka to become Division President of Europe and Africa with responsibility for overall day-to-day operations. He will be based in London. Pride joined ABS in 1992 and has held surveyor and country manager roles and also served as the Division President of Greater China.